What Is Alan Ayckbourn's New Play Earth Angel About at The Stephen Joseph Theatre?

There's a buzz in the air over in Scarborough, and it's all about the latest play from a true legend of British theatre. The one and only Alan Ayckbourn is back with his 91st play, a brand-new comedy called Earth Angel. It's set to open at the famous Stephen Joseph Theatre, a place Ayckbourn knows like the back of his hand.

From what has been shared, it sounds like a story that's part mystery, part comedy, and full of heart. It tackles one of those big life questions: what does it actually mean to be a good person? And in a world where things can feel a bit confusing, how can anyone really tell? With a fantastic cast and a story that promises to make people think and laugh, Earth Angel is shaping up to be a must-see show this autumn.

So what's the story behind Earth Angel?

Imagine this. A man named Gerald is going through a really tough time. He's just lost his wife, Amy, who was everything to him. He's trying to keep his chin up, but life without his beloved Amy feels empty. Friends and neighbours are popping by, trying to help, but he's mostly just muddling through the days. It's a situation anyone can understand; grief is a tricky thing to navigate.

But then, things take a very strange turn. At Amy's wake, a complete stranger appears out of nowhere. This chap seems perfectly nice, even helping with the washing up and offering to do a bit of shopping for Gerald. He's friendly, helpful, and seems like a genuinely good sort. But is he? Is he really just a kind soul who wants to help, or is there something else going on? This mysterious arrival kicks off a story that gently pokes at our ideas of kindness and trust. The play, Earth Angel, asks whether it is possible to spot a truly good person, an "earth angel," if one walked into your life. It's a classic Alan Ayckbourn setup: ordinary life turned on its head by an extraordinary event.

Who is bringing this story to life?

A play is nothing without its actors, and the cast for Earth Angel is packed with talent. The legendary Alan Ayckbourn isn't just the writer; he is also the director, guiding the actors to bring his vision to the stage. Glimpses from behind the scenes, like rehearsal pics, show the team hard at work. The casting for this production was handled by the brilliant Sarah Hughes CDG. The group of performers tasked with telling Gerald and Amy's story includes:

• Elizabeth Boag
• Iskandar Eaton
• Stuart Fox
• Liza Goddard
• Russell Richardson
• Hayden Wood

Each of these actors brings a unique energy, and it will be exciting to see them come together at the Stephen Joseph Theatre. The chemistry between the characters, especially between Gerald and the mysterious stranger, will be the key to unlocking the play's comedy and its deeper questions about human nature. With Alan Ayckbourn as the director, audiences are in for a real treat.

The creative team behind the scenes

It takes a whole village to put on a play, and the creative team for Earth Angel is full of experts who build the world the actors perform in. Think of them as the magicians behind the curtain. The overall look of the play, called the design, is created by Kevin Jenkins. He decides what the set looks like - from the furniture in Gerald's house to the colour of the walls.

Then there's the lighting, which is more important than people might think. Lighting sets the mood. Is a scene sad? Happy? A bit spooky? That's all down to the Lighting Designer, Jason Taylor. He paints with light to make sure the audience feels exactly what the story wants them to feel. Sound is just as vital, and the Associate Sound Designer for this show is Ernest Acquah, who will ensure every word is heard and every sound effect lands perfectly.

And what about the costumes? That's the job of the Wardrobe Supervisor, Julia Perry-Mook. She makes sure every character looks just right. Finally, the world on stage is brought to life by the Scenic Artist, Julia Wray, who paints the backdrops and set pieces. Every single person, from the casting director Sarah Hughes CDG to the scenic artist, plays a part in making the magic happen for Earth Angel.

The writer and director himself, Alan Ayckbourn, had something to say about the themes in his new play:

"We have to remember there are still good things floating about in the world today, though it's often hard to see them. But the good is still there if we look for it."

How to get tickets for this brilliant new play

So, fancy a trip to the theatre? Earth Angel will be at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough from Saturday, 13 September to Saturday, 11 October. That gives everyone a good window to catch this much-anticipated show. Getting tickets is easy; people can ring the box office or book online through the theatre's website.

And for those not near Scarborough, there's good news! After its run in September and October, the play is going on a short tour. It will be at the New Vic in Newcastle-under-Lyme from 14 to 25 October, and then at the Old Laundry in Bowness-on-Windermere from 4 to 8 November. So, whether it's in its home at the Stephen Joseph Theatre or on the road, there are plenty of chances to see what this mysterious Earth Angel is all about. Be sure to book those tickets soon!